An overview of relationships between the law and the individual is followed by a discussion of criminal justice as a community process, with attention to the importance of communication and economic impediments to effective community relations. Citizens' perceptions and expectations of the criminal justice system are then explored, as are special needs of racial and ethnic minorities, the elderly, and the young. The sections on the police treat the impact of constitutional law and technology on American policing, policing as a reflection of a city's public policy, styles of organization, police discretion in assessing deviance, occupational stress, and misconduct. An outline of the prosecutorial process emphasizes the prosecutor's power in charging, diversion, plea bargaining, indictments, and managing a public office. The chapter on the defense attorney's role considers the history of criminal law practice and ways in which the defense attorney often does not serve the best interests of either the defendant or the justice system. The book's treatment of the courts focuses on several problems, notably incompetent judges, poor administration, the bail issue, jury trials, and sentencing disparities. The final chapters cover juvenile justice, jail and prison systems, and problem areas within corrections such as prisoners' rights, serious inmate disturbances, and reintegration of the offender into society. Discussion questions, a glossary, and footnotes accompany each chapter. An index is provided.